We all know that feeling when you receive flowers and instantly feel better. The smile that appears on your face and the warm feeling that washes over you are like magic. But what if we told you that there's a real scientific explanation for it? Researchers have finally discovered why flowers have such a powerful effect on our happiness. It's even more interesting than you might think!

The effect of flowers on the brain

Scientists at Rutgers University made a stunning discovery: flowers always elicit a genuine smile within five seconds. Not a polite smirk, but a big, spontaneous smile — the sign of true joy! Your brain literally can't help but respond positively to flowers!

But why? The answer lies in your 'happiness hormones'. Flowers activate four crucial brain chemicals simultaneously: dopamine (which makes you feel rewarded), serotonin (which promotes long-term well-being), oxytocin (which facilitates bonding) and endorphins (which act as natural painkillers). This unique combination of chemicals explains why a simple bouquet can have such a powerful effect.

Dopamine is activated because flowers signalled to our ancestors that abundance was coming after a hungry winter. Serotonin makes us feel important. Oxytocin creates connection, which is why we love sharing flowers with others. And endorphins? They provide that blissful, relaxed feeling.

The Secret Power of Colour

Not all flowers affect your mood in the same way. Recent research conducted during the pandemic showed that yellow flowers, followed by red ones, make people feel the most 'comfortable', 'calm' and 'happy'. Blue, on the other hand, acts as a natural stress reducer.

The science behind colour psychology is surprising: orange flowers retain their uplifting effect even when mixed with 50% other colours, but just 25% orange destroys the relaxing effect of blue flowers. White flowers are unique in that they can relax and uplift.

Furthermore, here is what science has to say about the colours of flowers and their effect on your mood:

• Yellow activates the parts of your brain associated with creativity and alertness. Place sunflowers in your workspace to improve focus, or yellow gerbera daisies in the kitchen to start the day feeling energised.
• Blue lowers your heart rate and reduces cortisol, the stress hormone. Place delphiniums or blue hydrangeas in your bedroom to help your body relax after a busy day.
• Red slightly raises your blood pressure and stimulates passion centres. This makes it perfect for romantic dinners, but you should avoid large amounts of red flowers in workspaces where you need to stay focused.
• White flowers act as a 'reset button' for your brain. White lilies or carnations can help to create mental space, which is useful if you tend to overthink!

So you can choose your flowers very consciously: yellow and orange for an energy boost; blue and white for relaxation; and red for warmth and passion. Your interior will suddenly become a mood-setter!

Why do scents have such a direct effect?

Here's where it gets even more interesting: floral scents go straight to your emotional and memory centres. 'Scent and emotion are stored as a single memory,' says Harvard neuroscientist Venkatesh Murthy. This explains why the scent of roses can instantly transport you back to your grandmother's garden.

Japanese research reveals even more remarkable effects: the scent of orchids increases alpha brain waves, which induce deep relaxation, while the scent of plum blossom activates the areas of the brain responsible for memory, speech and movement. Jasmine helps you sleep better and vanilla makes it easier to resist sweet foods.

Scientists have also discovered some interesting facts about scents.

• Lavender reduces cortisol production within 15 minutes and increases the production of GABA, a neurotransmitter that promotes calmness. This makes it ideal for evening bouquets in the bedroom.
• Rose scent, when used in small doses, encourages concentration; however, too much can actually cause stress. At De Duinroos, we therefore recommend no more than three roses in a bouquet for workspaces.
• Citrus scents activate the sympathetic nervous system and increase alertness. These are perfect for morning bouquets that will give your day a fresh start!

This also explains why some florist shops create such a magical atmosphere: it's literally your brain's response to the scent cocktail!

Use flowers as your personal reset button

Studies show that people who receive flowers experience reduced feelings of depression, anxiety and agitation over a longer period of time, and report greater zest for life. Research shows that flowers can even influence how we perceive others: when flowers are present, we rate photos of people more positively, even if we don't consciously notice them!

In the office, flowers boost concentration, creativity and job satisfaction. At home, they foster a stronger connection with family and friends. Flowers are much more than just decorations; they enhance your mood and have a positive influence on your entire environment.

The meditative effect of viewing and arranging flowers is like a natural mindfulness exercise. You are truly forced to slow down and savour the moment. How special is that?

How to use flowers to achieve maximum happiness

Now that you know the science behind it, you can use flowers strategically. For stress relief, for example? Choose blue flowers with soft scents, such as delphiniums or lilies. Need energy? Go for sunflowers and orange flowers. Want to create a romantic atmosphere? Red and pink flowers are ideal, but make sure the scent of the roses is not too strong as this can actually cause stress.

Arrange flowers thoughtfully around your home: use warm colours in the hallway to create a welcoming atmosphere, display a variety of flowers in the living room to make it cosy, and opt for calming tones in the bedroom. In the office, yellow flowers stimulate creativity without the distraction of strong scents.

Your own flower experiment

The science is clear: flowers are not a luxury, but an investment in your mental health. They activate the same happiness systems as good relationships and meaningful work, but in just a few seconds.

Try consciously experimenting with different colours this week. Notice how yellow flowers influence your morning or how blue flowers calm your evening. Take the time to smell your flowers, as this activates powerful brain circuits.

At De Duinroos, we now have an even better understanding of why we've been passionate about flowers for over 95 years. It's not just about beauty; it's about your well-being. Which flowers make you happiest?